Steak ‘n Shake sparks online controversy with 21-cent Bitcoin bonus for workers: ‘This is the way it is’

Steak ‘n Shake says it is giving its hourly employees a Bitcoin bonus — a move the fast food chain is touting as a first in the industry, and which is drawing strong reactions online.

The company announced its plans on Sunday in an X post.

“Starting March 1, all hourly employees will receive a Bitcoin bonus worth 21 cents per hour!” Read this post.

The chain added that it will also make a $1,000 contribution Trump accountswhich is scheduled to be released on July 4.

Passed last year, the Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) will provide Trump’s accounts with $1,000 for every American child born between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2028.

“We aim to be the maximum wage employer in our communities,” Steak ‘n Shake’s post read.

“We look to pay the best for the best so we can deliver the best!”

The chain added: “We take care of our employees, who then take care of our customers, and the results take care of themselves!”

Fox News Digital has reached out to Steak ‘n Shake for comment.

This ad received praise from X’s fans.

“Amazing! Thank you so much,” Virginia-based conservative activist Scott Pressler wrote.

“This is awesome! Btw, your burger is too!” Another commenter commented.

“This is the way. Way to go guys!” another person said.

But some other commenters were skeptical.

“This seems more like a publicity stunt than anything that would actually help,” one X user wrote. “Six extra dollars a week, guys!! You can buy a cheeseburger.”

“It’s insulting to even post about $0.21 an hour,” another critic said. “Your burger is bad, by the way.”

This latest move is one of several major changes Steak ‘n Shake has made in the past year.

Just last month, the chain announced it would do so Remove microwaves From its restaurants to “improving the quality of food and using only traditional cooking methods.”

Months ago, several Steak ‘n Shake restaurants started putting up huge American flags in one location National action.

The company said the exhibits were “the tallest and largest American flag(s) that local governments will allow.”

“Steak shake with pride Supports American values The chain said at the time.